Inviting public comments on draft policy can be a daunting proposition, especially in the age of angry Internet comments. Knowing how residents in other cities have responded to draft open data policy can help make that process more approachable. To better understand that we took a look at the most common sentiments in draft open data policy comments.

A number of cities have invited feedback on draft open data policies — but who actually participates? We analyzed 164 comments made by 65 users on the online drafts posted by 9 American cities to find out.

Our analysis of public feedback on the draft open data policies posted by nine American cities online found that comments focus most on governance, usability and privacy. We hope cities will apply this information towards more meaningfully engage with the public.

By designing open data programs around the needs of residents, city governments can build trust with communities, creating new opportunities for accountability and effectiveness. This has the ability to spark positive civic action for the greater good.

After the White House’s decision to bar recording, a CNN sketch artist document the press briefing. Long before livestreams on YouTube, however, illustrations have been a key medium used to inform the public about courts, hearings and speeches with limited access.